Wednesday, November 9, 2016

The inaugural edition of Aster Media Awards saw luminaries emphasizing the critical role of media in ensuring inclusiveness in society and reiterated the immense impact that journalism of positive kind can have on the nation. At a glittering function held in New Delhi recently, The Award in the International category was shared by Sajila Sasheedharan for her story in Khaleej Times and Anand Raj of Gulf News, Sarika Malhotra from Business Today and Manoj Sharma from Hindustan Times were the joint winners in National (India) category. Regional category was won by Sinoj Thomas from Malayalam Manorama. Aasheesh Sharma and Asad Ali got a Special Mention from the jury for quality of reporting on a news story published in HT Brunch magazine. Winners were felicitated with cash prize of Rs. 500,000 each along with a citation to a total award value of Rs.2, 500,000.

Prof. P.J. Kurien, Deputy Chairman of the Upper House of Indian Parliament said, “Journalists have to work in ‘’mission’’ mode as it influences people, government and all other constituents.” In a video screened at Awards function, Shri. J.P. Nadda, Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India said, “Journalism has the ability to impact public, policy and the politics of a country. I hope more journalists will play a role in bringing social change through their reporting.” Shri. Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog acknowledged the need for an award like Aster Media Awards to applaud journalism with social impact

The function also featured experts talking about Right to Health as a fundamental Right. Dr. Syeda Hameed, Former Member of Planning Commission said, “Media is increasingly being inclusive and journalists now go to remote areas to capture unfolding developments.” Dr. M.C. Misra, Director, AIIMS urged the media to provide more coverage to health-related issues.’’ Dr. Ramanan Laxminarayan, Distinguished Professor, Public Health Foundation of India said, “In the last one year more children have been immunized in India than anywhere in the world but few in India are aware of this wonderful achievement!” Shri. Venu Rajamony, Press Secretary to Hon’ble President of India said, “It is important to keep media close to healthcare as an ally as this could have a multiplier effect.” Dr. Azad Moopen, Chairman & Managing Director, Aster DM Healthcare & Founder and Managing Trustee of Aster DM Foundation “Technology is a great enabler for awareness. With India’s diverse challenges and remote locations, healthcare can also be delivered smartly. In a country where mobile telephony empowered Indians in less than a decade, healthcare services can be dispensed with smart use of technology such as telemedicine. Today’s media needs to focus on what is required which can be the impetus for change in society” He added

Aster Media Awards function was attended by more than 100 media houses from across India.